Christie budget raids NJ clean energy fund

The governor laid out his $32.9 billion spending proposal on Tuesday, outlining plans to increase public school aid and allow more poor people to enroll in Medicaid. But he didn't mention plans to transfer money for clean energy rebates into the general fund for the fourth straight year.

The money is paid by utility users and is supposed to encourage residents to buy energy-efficient appliances and weatherize their homes.

Christie took $89 million from the fund this year and $210 million the year before.

Sen. Bob Smith of Piscataway says the way the governor is using the money amounts to an additional tax on residents.